Negative Self-Perceptions and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Severity; Examination of the Benefits and Barriers Model in Indonesia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61518/ijpw-163Keywords:
Non-Suicidal Self-Injury, Self-esteem, Self-punishment, University StudentAbstract
This study addresses the high rates of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) among university students in Indonesia, specifically exploring the role of low self-esteem in contributing to more severe NSSI. Despite the documented link between low self-esteem and NSSI, the mechanisms underlying this relationship remain unclear. This research evaluates a mediation model proposing that low self-esteem leads to more severe NSSI through increased self-punishment motivations. Additionally, it tests the Benefits and Barriers Model of NSSI in the Indonesian context. Data were collected from 248 Indonesian students with a history of NSSI, who completed an online survey measuring NSSI characteristics, self-esteem, and self-punishment motivations. Mediation was assessed using structural equation modeling with bootstrapped 95% percentile-corrected confidence intervals, where NSSI severity was defined by frequency, recency, and versatility. The results confirm that self-punishment significantly mediates the relationship between low self-esteem and NSSI severity, supporting the Benefits and Barriers Model in Indonesia. While the mediation effect was partial, indicating other contributing factors, the findings suggest that help-seeking barriers, such as stigma and limited access to care, may exacerbate NSSI severity. These results emphasize the need for interventions that address not only self-punishment but also broader emotional, social, and cultural factors. Further research is necessary to examine these additional factors and contextual barriers in greater depth.
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